Be thee humble?

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Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful. (John Wooden)

Have you ever heard the quote from scripture that God takes care of the humble, but opposes the proud man? I don't know about you, but I wouldn't want to be on the 'opposing' side to God! I am not thinking that would end very well at all. 

Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud. (Psalm 138:6)

God cares for the humble - the one who realizes how much they owe to the one who has redeemed their lives. I used to think a humble person was one who always went around kind of timid, shyly carrying on tasks behind the scenes. I have since discovered God actually has quite a few humble servants who aren't afraid to put themselves out there each and every day.

They value relationships and work hard to keep not only their relationships 'solid', but they are constantly seeking to see all relationships be on their best footing. They value what talents they have been given and are obedient to put them into use. They know the truth and aren't afraid to bring light into darkness by sharing that truth. You see - the humble aren't shy - they are bold in Christ.

Probably one of the most significant characteristics of a humble man or woman that I have observed over the years is this trait of always being grateful. They have a spirit of thankfulness that just exudes from them. It isn't 'mushy' or 'gushy' in anyway, but you can just sense that they are 'at peace' with their lives and are grateful for each blessing God has bestowed. 

God opposes the proud, but he gives grace upon grace to the humble. To the one who is willing to cultivate a spirit of obedience - God is more than willing to cultivate all the other characteristics of humility that we observe in the truly humble individual. I have never been obedient to what God asks me to do and then not been thankful in the end for what he helped me to see, avoid, or come into as a result of that obedience. 

The dictionary may define humility as the state of feeling a bit inferior to others. The very presence of God within our lives could never make us 'inferior' to anyone else - in fact, it makes us appreciate those around us, pray for their needs, and be there when they need a helping hand. Humble people aren't 'saints' - they are just obedient sinners redeemed by God's grace. Just sayin!

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